Wild shellfish collection

Seafood such as oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, scallops, cockles and razor clams are known as shellfish. As a general rule shellfish do not include crustaceans such as shrimp, prawns, crabs and lobsters.

Is it safe to eat shellfish?

Shellfish have a protective shell and feed by filtering and eating algae and other microscopic organisms in the water. If the water is polluted the animal can accumulate the harmful substances in their flesh, making people sick when they eat the shellfish.

Pollutants that can be present in the water include bacteria, viruses, metals and algal toxins. Many of these toxins and other harmful pollutants are not destroyed through cooking.

The Department of Health recommends only eating shellfish that have been harvested commercially under strict monitoring programs that ensure the waters are free from pollutants and toxins. These safety programs include routine testing of the animal as well as the waters to make sure the shellfish are safe to eat.

What are wild shellfish?

Shellfish that are caught outside monitored waterways are known as wild shellfish, and their safety for consumption cannot be assured due to the pollutants and micro-organisms that can be present in the water. The sources of these pollutants include:

algal blooms – not all algal blooms are visible to the naked eye

run-off from heavy rainfall (do not collect wild shellfish for several days following heavy rainfall)

water that has been closed, such as due to a sewage overflow (look for health warning signs along the shoreline)

More information

You can also contact the Food Unit at the Environmental Health Directorate, phone 9388 4999.

Remember

Shellfish can sometimes accumulate harmful substances in their flesh which can make people sick if eaten.

It is impossible to guarantee the safety of eating wild shellfish.

You may be putting your health at risk when collecting and eating wild shellfish.

Buy commercial shellfish from reputable and licensed seafood shops.

Children, people with weakened immune systems and the elderly may be more at risk to food poisoning and should consider this before eating shellfish.

This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.